Can you be a truck driver with a criminal record?

If your goal is to become a truck driver, you don’t need to give up just because you have a criminal record in your past.

Truck driving school: Some truck driving schools will conduct a criminal record check before accepting your application, but most won’t. In many cases they will warn you that your possibilities might be limited by your past record.

Record checks: Many truck driving companies will tell you that they are going to do a criminal record check. This is very easy for them to do because there are companies that provide this service, so you should take this seriously. Often it will come up during the initial phone call, but it is more likely that it will be raised during the first interview.

Most companies will not do a background check unless they are seriously considering hiring you. That’s why it’s important to be honest and forthright with the interviewer about your past record. He or she will inform you when they are going to do a background check. This is when you should discuss the issue seriously with them. Tell them what happened and how your life has changed since the event. Avoid appearing angry and defensive about the past. Your job is to convince them that they can trust you and the events are behind you. Highlight other areas in your life where you have demonstrated responsibility, such as work and volunteer experience.

Unfortunately, in some cases a criminal record will appear to be an insurmountable barrier to some employers. While this could be due to stigma, it’s also important to remember that the employer may have financial pressures such as insurance. Truck drivers are responsible for carrying thousands of dollars of merchandise in one load. These could be items such as computers, designer goods and furniture. A truck driver needs to be bondable in order to do the job.

What does bondable mean?

Bondable means, basically, that you are able to be insured. Technically, everyone is bondable, but an insurance company may come back with a quote that’s far above what the employer is willing to spend if they find out you have a criminal record.

Applying for a pardon

If you are worried about criminal background checks and how they could affect your career, you should consider applying for a pardon. A pardon will seal your record and enables you to receive protection against discrimination under human rights legislation in some provinces. Keep in mind that a pardon will not seal your driver’s abstract. If you were convicted of impaired driving or another vehicle-related offense, it could still affect your or your employer’s insurance.  

Crossing the border

The other issue that could stand in your way as a driver is the ability to cross the border. Apply for an entry waiver to ensure that you are able to enter the United States. It is much easier to be approved for a waiver if you do it in advance of travel.

If you are serious about a truck driving career, a criminal record doesn’t have to be an insurmountable obstacle. Contact us for a free consultation.